VOICED : Skier taking East Timor to the Winter Oly

Johan Goncalves, a 19-year-old athlete, is set to become East Timor's first Winter Olympian. Growing up in France, he was inspired by a friend's joke to represent East Timor. Despite financial challenges, he trained intensively and gained international competition rights in 2013. His unique position helped him secure sponsors and media attention. Johan even established East Timor's National Skiing Federation. Training in France with other unsupported athletes, he is embraced by his peers. Although unlikely to win, Johan aims to make his country proud by carrying its flag at the Olympics.

What inspired Johan Goncalves to represent East Timor in the Winter Olympics?

• A family tradition

• A famous athlete's story

• A school project

• A friend's joke

What is one of the major challenges Johan faces in his training?

• Language barriers

• Limited access to equipment

• Lack of motivation

• High training costs

How did Johan manage to find sponsors for his training?

• By winning competitions

• Through social media

• Due to the novelty of representing East Timor

• By organizing fundraising events

Where does Johan train with other athletes who lack national support?

• In the United States

• In Savua, France

• In East Timor

• In Canada

What role will Johan play at the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics?

• He will light the Olympic torch

• He will carry the national flag

• He will give a speech

• He will perform a traditional dance